A fun, developmental drama programme which is aimed at developing confidence and boosting self esteem.

Description of Organisation: By developing children's confidence and self esteem, the curriculum of the Helen O'Grady Drama Academy allows each and every child to fulfil their potential by developing verbal communication skills in a fun-filled environment.

In late 1960 a small group of friends got together to do a one off show to raise money for the University Appeal. The driving force was Frank Tucker aided and abetted by Val Treharne and Adrian Howells. The first meeting and reading of The Boyfriend was at a member’s house in Cwmdonkin House, Terrace Road. The first show was performed in January 1961 at The Llewellyn Hall. It was such a success that the group were invited to perform at the Waterford International Festival of Light Opera in the Autumn of that year 1961. As some of the original cast , and the Producer, were unable to go to Waterford, the show was recast and David Thomas was appointed as Producer. The Abbey Players were named after Singleton Abbey where they first rehearsed, and made many visits to the Waterford Festival in Ireland, where they won many awards over the years. The society eventually, outgrew their “home” at the Llewellyn Hall in the YMCA and moved to the Grand Theatre, presenting shows on a much bigger scale. Musical shows are always held in the Swansea Grand Theatre in November. A very friendly society in which new members are always welcome. The shows are always produced by professional producers.

Description of Organisation:
Annual amateur theatrical show staged annually in November at the Swansea Grand Theatre. Tickets are available from the Grand Theatre box office on 01792 475715 or through our ticket secretary Mrs Anne Williams Tel. 01792 230007..

The Dylan Thomas Fringe exists to provide a showcase for the best in up and coming talent in the performing arts from Swansea and South West Wales, combined with a range of acts from further afield. Established in 2005, following a successful pilot event the previous year, the Fringe has grown steadily incorporating a wide array of performers and events. Past Fringes have featured Rob Brydon, Harry Hill, Ardal O’Hanlon, Jimmy Carr, James Taylor Quartet, and David McAlmont; alongside a host of eclectic local and national performers. The 2008 Swansea Fringe saw a fledgling partnership with Swansea Metropolitan University flourish into this years, 2009 festival being fully endorsed by SMU. Student involvement in Arts Marketing, community and youth projects means the Dylan Thomas Fringe completes a raft of initiatives in Swansea to nurture and encourage young creative talent: showcased in the ugly lovely town of Dylan?s birth and where much of his inspiration and creativity was drawn. So come and join in the party! Take in the acts, the seascape and the local hospitality; it’s a winning combination.

Drama, Dance & Singing for 4-16 year-olds for three hours a week divided into: an hour of jazz/modern dance, an hour of drama and an hour of singing, all within a small class (not more than seventeen) of similar age group.

THE STAFF: Experienced professionals teach in all the schools. Many are, or were, actors/singers/dancers/directors or choreographers. Most are highly qualified in teaching or performing, and all are carefully chosen for their experience of working with youngsters.